It’s the middle of summer, and you’ve decided it’s time to stain your deck. You pull out the cans of wood stain from the shed, and realize you have a choice to make: which color should you choose? This decision can be difficult, but with the right information, it can be easy to make a wise choice.
What Do You Need For Deck Staining Project?
You will need some supplies for the staining process, deck boards or deck surface, and deck cleaners.
Prepping Supplies
- A putty knife
- Sandpaper (100, 150, and 220 grit)
- TSP Substitute
- Stain (semi-transparent, solid color, or toner)
- Stain brush or pad
- Roller and tray
- Lint-free clothes or shop vac
Safety Supplies
- Rubber gloves
- Eye protection
- Mask or respirator
Staining Supplies
The deck stain supplies you will need will depend on the type of stain you choose:
- Semi-transparent stain
- Solid or natural color stain
- Paints thinner
- Scrub brush
- Toner
- Natural bristle brush
Clean-Up Supplies
The clean-up supplies you need will depend on the type of stain you choose:
- Belt sander
- Stain remover
- Putty knife
- Wire brush
- Sandpaper (100, 150, and 220 grit)
- TSP Substitute
- Paint thinner
- Power Pressure washer
- Stain Cleaner
How To Stain A Deck: The Process
Staining a deck is not a difficult task, but there are a few things you need to do to do it correctly. Follow these steps and your deck will be looking great in no time.
Step 1: Prepare The Deck For Staining
The first step is to prepare the deck for staining. This involves cleaning the wood surface, removing any old stain or paint, and making sure the surface is smooth. While preparing the deck, be sure to wear rubber gloves and eye protection.
To clean the deck, you will need to use a TSP Substitute or a belt sander. If you choose to use a TSP Substitute, mix it according to the manufacturer’s instructions and scrub the deck with a brush. If you choose to use a belt sander, sand the deck with 100 grit sandpaper. Be sure to vacuum up any dust afterward.
Step 2: Power-Wash
Power-washing the deck will remove any dirt, grime, or pollen that has built up on the surface. It is important to do this before you stain, as it will ensure that the stain adheres properly.
If there is an old stain or paint on the deck, it is important to remove it before you apply a new one. This can be done with a power washer, a belt sander, or a stain remover.
Step 3: Apply Stain
Once the deck is prepared, it’s time to choose the right stain. There are three main types of stains: semi-transparent, solid color, and toner. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, so make sure to choose the right one for your needs.
After you have chosen the right stain, it’s time to apply it. This can be done with a brush, a roller, or a pad. Avoid lap marks or brush strokes over the wood grain of a deck. Let them completely dry the wet stain and wet edge.
Step 4: Cover All The Details
After the stain has been applied, it’s important to cover all the details. This includes using a putty knife to fill in any cracks, sanding any rough edges, and using a lint-free cloth or shop vac to remove any dust.
Step 5: Clean Up
The final step is to clean up. This involves removing any stain that has gotten on your clothes or skin and cleaning up any brushes or rollers you used. Once everything is clean, your deck is ready to enjoy!
How Long Does It Take To Stain A Deck?
The amount of time it takes to stain a deck depends on the type of stain you choose and the size of the deck. A semi-transparent stain will take less time to apply than a solid color stain, and a small deck will take less time to stain than a large one. In general, you can expect to spend about two hours staining a deck.
If you have a small deck, you will only need one quart of stain. If your deck is larger, you will need more stains. For a deck with railings and stairs, you will need an additional quart of stain. On railing or stairs, add 30 minutes to the estimate.
The frequency with which you need to stain your deck will depend on the type of wood it is made of and the type of paint you use. If you have a pressure-treated wood deck, you will need to stain it every two to three years. If you have a cedar or redwood deck, you can wait four to five years between stains.
Can You Stain Over Old Deck Stain?
If your new stain color is the same or darker than the old color, then you can stain over the old deck stain. However, if your new stain color is lighter than the old color, then you will need to remove the old deck stain before you can apply the new one.
Old deck stains can be removed with a power washer, a belt sander, or a stain remover. Once the old stain is removed, you can apply the new one.
Deck Staining Tips
Deck staining is a simple process, but there are a few things you can do to ensure the best results. Follow these tips and your deck will look great for years to come.
Take Your Time
One of the most important things to remember when staining a deck is to take your time. If you rush, you may miss spots or apply too much stain in one area. This can lead to an uneven finish and premature wear.
Preparation, Preparation, Preparation
As with any painting or staining project, preparation is key. Make sure to properly clean and sand the deck before you apply the stain. This will help the stain adhere properly. Before you start painting or staining, it is important to plan. Make sure you have all the supplies you need and that you know how long the project will take. This will help you avoid any last-minute surprises.
Brighteners Help A lot
If your deck is looking a little dull, you can use a brightener to help bring back its natural luster. Brighteners are applied after the deck is cleaned and before the stain is applied. They can be found at most hardware stores.
Rinse Thoroughly
After you have applied the stain, it is important to rinse the deck thoroughly. This will remove any excess stain and help prevent streaks. Make sure to use a garden hose with a spray nozzle to get the job done right.
Don’t Use Cheap Stuff
When it comes to deck stains, you get what you pay for. Cheap stains will wear quickly and won’t provide the same level of protection as a more expensive stain. It is worth spending a little extra on a quality stain that will last longer and look better.
Follow The Instruction Properly
Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying the stain. This will ensure that the stain is applied correctly and will provide the best results. For example, when applying a stain, it is best to do it in the shade. This will help prevent the stain from drying too quickly and leaving streaks. Avoid staining applications in direct sunlight.
Less Is Better
It is better to apply multiple thin coats of a stain than one thick coat. Thin coats are easier to control and will provide a more even finish. Do not try to apply the entire can of stain in one go. This will likely result in an uneven finish.
Use Paint Brush
Using a paintbrush can help you achieve a more even finish when staining your deck. It is especially useful for staining hard-to-reach areas or detail work. Be sure to use a brush with good bristles, and make sure to rinse it off after each use.
Consistent Maintenance
Once you have stained your deck, it is important to maintain it regularly. This includes sweeping it regularly and applying a fresh coat of stain every two to three years. The maintenance will help your deck look its best and last for many years.
Let RB Painters Stain Your Deck
Need your deck stained but don’t have the time or patience to do it yourself? Let RB Painting Company take care of it for you. We are experts in deck staining and can get the job done quickly and efficiently. We use high-quality stains and finishes that will protect your deck and make it look great. Contact us today to schedule a free estimate.
